Definition: Wherefore thus saith the LORD God of hosts, Because ye speak this word, behold, I will make my words in thy mouth fire, and this people wood, and it shall devour them.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Jeremiah 5:14. It’s a really powerful and dramatic warning, and it speaks to a significant moment in the book of Jeremiah. Here's a simplified explanation: The Core Meaning: This verse is saying that speaking a specific word (or action) will cause terrible destruction and devastation for the people God has chosen. It’s like a divine judgment being passed down. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Wherefore thus saith the LORD God of hosts…” - This is a formal, authoritative way of saying "Therefore, this is what the Lord says." It establishes that this isn't just an opinion; it’s a direct message from God. “…Because ye speak this word…” - This highlights what happened – people are speaking a particular word or action. “Behold, I will make my words in thy mouth fire…” - This is the shocking part! The Lord is saying that his words (the specific thing they're talking about) will be incredibly intense and burning hot, like a fiery brand. Think of it as a massive explosion of righteous anger or punishment. “and this people wood, and it shall devour them.” - This is the terrifying consequence. The "people" – likely referring to Israel – are being consumed by this fire. It’s not just about physical destruction; it's about complete annihilation and ruin. “Wood” could mean a burning of their faith or their way of life. “It shall devour them” means they will be completely destroyed, leaving nothing behind. What’s the Significance? This verse is a dramatic example of God's judgment and his power over His people. It’s often interpreted as: A Warning: Jeremiah was warning Israel about their disobedience and wickedness. The word he was speaking was a promise to judge them harshly. God’s Sovereignty: It shows that God is in control of events, even when they seem chaotic or disastrous. He doesn't just passively observe; he actively intervenes with terrible consequences. A Call to Repentance: It can be seen as a call for repentance – a turning away from sin and seeking God’s forgiveness. Important Note: The context of the verse is important. Jeremiah was facing immense pressure to deliver Israel, and this verse serves as a stark reminder of what could happen if they didn't change their ways. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific story or event from the Bible? Discuss its symbolism?